The volunteers can use the new fare machines to add value to their smart card and to check their card balance.

The public can use the machines to purchase paper tickets using notes as well as coins. More than 15,000 paper tickets have already been bought from the vending machines.

“While the software is undergoing rigorous testing, TransLink has rolled up its sleeves and installed smart card equipment at more than 100 railway stations.

“Patrons would’ve noticed a growing number of these machines on their railway platforms,” Mr Lucas said.

Hornibrook Bus Lines is taking part in the pilot and the entire Sunbus fleet has undergone pre-wiring for the onboard equipment.

More than 360 buses in the Brisbane Transport fleet have been pre-wired and in some instances equipment has been installed.

“Late last year, I told Parliament that we planned to have the smart card rolled out in south east Queensland by the end of 2006.

“One thing I made clear at that time, and I’ll say it again: we want to make sure that the technology is absolutely, 100% to our satisfaction before we ‘go live’ and I make no apology for insisting on the best outcome for our public transport users.

The Minister said TransLink and integrated ticketing covers one of the largest ticketing areas in the world.

“That’s good news for the millions of public transport users. We want them to have the best system with the best technology and that’s why we want to get it right,” Mr Lucas said.

For more information please visit the TransLink website at www.translink.com.au or call 1300 722 688